Whether we like it or not, AI (Artificial Intelligence) is here to stay. In the fast-paced world of creative work, harnessing the power of cutting-edge technologies can be a game-changer, and learning how to use AI like ChatGPT can be advantageous for your work and productivity.
If you aren’t familiar with ChatGPT you can get an overview in my article called “ChatGPT Explained Visually.” Initially designed as a language processing tool, ChatGPT has found its way into diverse applications, including assisting individuals in the realm of creative endeavors. By leveraging its impressive language generation capabilities, ChatGPT can be an invaluable resource for writers, marketers, coders, and all those in creative fields.
In this article, we’ll explore the ways in which ChatGPT can aid your work. While most articles out there talk about what ChatGPT can do, we’re going to see literal outputs so you get a better idea of what it looks like.
Define and Explain Concepts
Going to a dictionary for definitions is great, but sometimes you need more context. This is where ChatGPT can help. Whether you want to understand a word definition, academic concept, code understanding and more, you can get this information in a seconds timeframe.
Take for example this prompt. I asked ChatGPT to clarify the difference between two terms commonly referenced within JavaScript code.
Prompt: Should JavaScript be using var or const to represent variables?
Answer: In JavaScript, the choice between using var or const (or let) to represent variables depends on the specific use case and intended behavior. Here’s a breakdown of their differences:
var:varis the oldest way to declare variables in JavaScript. It has function scope, meaning variables declared withvarare accessible within the entire function in which they are defined, regardless of block boundaries. Variables declared withvarcan also be reassigned and redeclared within the same scope. This can sometimes lead to unexpected behavior, especially in complex applications, asvarvariables are hoisted (i.e., moved to the top of their scope) during the compilation phase.const:constis short for “constant” and is used to declare variables whose values should not be changed once assigned. Variables declared withconsthave block scope, which means they are only accessible within the block they are defined in, likeifstatements or loops. It’s important to note that while the variable itself is constant, objects and arrays declared withconstcan still have their properties or elements modified. Attempting to reassign aconstvariable or modify a primitive value assigned to it will result in an error.
In modern JavaScript development, it is generally recommended to use const for variables that are not intended to be reassigned. This helps prevent accidental reassignments and enhances code readability by clearly indicating the variable’s immutability. If you need a variable that will be reassigned, you can use let, which has block scope like const but allows for variable reassignment within the same scope.
To summarize, prefer using const whenever possible, and use let when you need to reassign the variable. Reserve the use of var for specific cases where its function scoping behavior is required, though it’s generally advised to use let instead for block scoping.
Summarize Content
Have you ever tried to study something that requires a lot of reading, and you wish you could just get a simple summary of it to wrap your head around? Learn content faster by letting ChatGPT summarize the key points. You then have short notes to easily reference back on later.
Take for example an article I wrote called “Is Email Marketing Relevant?” There’s 910 words in this article, and it takes about 5 minutes to read. To save time and yellow highlights I asked ChatGPT to help.
Prompt: Summarize the following content in one paragraph: [paste of the article text]
Answer: The content discusses various social platforms like MySpace, Vine, and Google+ that have risen and faded over time, emphasizing the importance of staying updated with marketing trends in the fast-paced landscape of technology. However, one channel that has stood the test of time and continues to be effective is email marketing. It highlights the significance of lead generators to attract potential customers and build a database for targeted email campaigns, which offer a high return on investment. The article provides tips for creating successful email campaigns, including delivering value, making emails scannable, and personalizing messaging. It concludes by encouraging readers to pay attention to email marketing as part of their marketing strategy and mentions a platform called Study Hall by BrandRoots, where one can learn more about email marketing and other creative work foundations.
Let’s take this one step further in the eyes of a marketer. Let’s condense this article into a Twitter tweet.
Prompt: Can you make this content a tweetable at 240 characters?
Answer: Social platforms like MySpace & Vine came & went, but EMAIL remains strong since 1972! 📧 $1 investment = $36 ROI! 💼 Learn why email campaigns are essential for your strategy & check out Study Hall by BrandRoots for practical marketing insights! #EmailMarketing #StudyHall
It even included the hashtags, and I do appreciate the promoting of BrandRoots as a resource. 🙂 Stop struggling to think of short tweets around a character count. Let ChatGPT do this legwork for you.
Write Social Media Content
Sometimes it helps to have a brainstorm session when creating a digital campaign. ChatGPT can help with this brainstorm. Let’s take a look at how ChatGPT helps to plan a week’s worth of social media content for BrandRoots Study Hall.
First, I give ChatGPT background context. I explain what the platform is and its target audiences. It’s important to understand that ChatGPT doesn’t know everything. Often times you need to provide it context, especially for better results.
Prompt: BrandRoots provides beginner-level learning resources to grow your knowledge, confidence and output in creative work. BrandRoots teaches subjects in design, coding, productivity, marketing, business and self-growth.
[…I provided a few more paragraphs explaining how BrandRoots is launching an on-demand subscription library of creative resources, and I listed all the audiences it’s trying to reach. To spare reading here, I’ll cut to the example output…]
Create a week of social media content to market the on-demand platform subscription.
Answer: Certainly! Here’s a week-long social media content plan to market the on-demand platform subscription “BrandRoots Study Hall”:
Day 1 (Monday):
Post: Video teaser showcasing the diverse subjects available on BrandRoots Study Hall, with snippets of design, coding, productivity, marketing, business, and self-growth resources. Caption: “Calling all creatives, students, educators, and organizations! 📚 Introducing BrandRoots Study Hall – your gateway to practical, beginner-level knowledge for creative work. Subscribe now to access a treasure trove of resources! #BrandRootsStudyHall #OnDemandLearning”
Day 2 (Tuesday):
Post: Carousel of testimonial quotes from satisfied users representing each target audience (individual creatives, organizations, educators, and students). Caption: “Hear from our satisfied subscribers! Join BrandRoots Study Hall to elevate your skills, teaching, and professional growth. 🌟 #TestimonialTuesday #BrandRootsStudyHall”
Day 3 (Wednesday):
Post: Share a short video of the platform’s user-friendly interface, highlighting features like video courses, downloadable templates, and printable reference sheets. Caption: “Explore, learn, and grow with ease on BrandRoots Study Hall. Our on-demand library is designed to nurture your creativity at your own pace! 🚀 #BrandRootsStudyHall #OnlineLearning”
Day 4 (Thursday):
Post: Showcase a sneak peek of an exclusive course available on BrandRoots Study Hall. Encourage users to subscribe to gain full access to this valuable content. Caption: “Unlock your creative potential with our exclusive courses! Enroll in BrandRoots Study Hall now to dive deep into fascinating subjects. #BrandRootsStudyHall #ExclusiveCourses”
Day 5 (Friday):
Post: Run a flash sale promotion for a limited-time discount on BrandRoots Study Hall subscriptions. Include a countdown timer in the image to create urgency. Caption: “Don’t miss out on this incredible offer! For a limited time, get % off your BrandRoots Study Hall subscription. Subscribe now and start your creative journey! #FlashSale #BrandRootsStudyHall”
Day 6 (Saturday):
Post: Share user-generated content from subscribers who have used BrandRoots Study Hall to improve their creative skills. Caption: “Our community’s success stories inspire us! Thank you to all our subscribers who continue to grow and flourish with BrandRoots Study Hall. 🌱 #CommunityLove #BrandRootsStudyHall”
Day 7 (Sunday):
Post: Share a “Sunday Spotlight” post featuring one of the top-rated courses available on BrandRoots Study Hall, along with reviews from users who found it particularly helpful. Caption: “Discover this week’s spotlight course – a favorite among our subscribers! Enroll now and embark on your journey to success. #SundaySpotlight #BrandRootsStudyHall”
Throughout the week, use engaging graphics and videos to accompany each post. Encourage users to like, share, and comment on the content, and interact with them by responding to comments and messages promptly. Remember to use relevant hashtags and tags to expand your reach and collaborate with influencers or content creators in the creative industry to amplify your message further.
Draft Marketing Plans
If you have a small team or don’t know where to start in marketing, ChatGPT can help provide a brainstorm to get you going. Let’s continue in the thread we just looked at and explore it further.
Prompt: Plan a marketing plan for BrandRoots Study Hall for the next month.
Answer: Marketing Plan for BrandRoots Study Hall – Next Month:
Month: August
Objective: Increase subscriptions to BrandRoots Study Hall and promote its beginner-level learning resources to individual creatives, organizations, educators, and students.
Week 1:
- Social Media Content Launch:
- Utilize the week-long social media content plan created earlier to kickstart the month’s marketing efforts. Implement engaging posts, videos, and testimonials to create brand awareness and reach a wider audience.
- Email Newsletter:
- Send out a newsletter to the existing BrandRoots mailing list, introducing BrandRoots Study Hall and its on-demand library of resources. Offer an early-bird discount to encourage subscribers to enroll.
- Referral Program Launch:
- Start the referral program, incentivizing current subscribers to refer new users to BrandRoots Study Hall. Offer a discount or a reward for both the referrer and the referred.
Week 2:
- Webinar Series Announcement:
- Announce a series of webinars scheduled for the next two weeks, covering key topics related to creative work. Promote these webinars on social media and through email newsletters.
- Collaborative Blog Posts:
- Partner with influential creative bloggers to publish guest posts about the importance of beginner-level learning resources. Feature BrandRoots Study Hall as a valuable platform for skill development.
- Webinar Registration Campaign:
- Launch a targeted ad campaign to drive registrations for the upcoming webinars. Use demographic targeting to reach the desired audience segments.
Week 3:
- Webinar Series:
- Host the scheduled webinars with industry experts and experienced creatives. Ensure interactive Q&A sessions at the end to engage participants and answer their questions.
- Limited-Time Offer:
- Introduce a time-limited offer for BrandRoots Study Hall subscriptions, providing a discount or additional benefits to create a sense of urgency.
- Educational Institution Outreach:
- Reach out to educational institutions, offering free trial access to BrandRoots Study Hall for educators and students. Encourage them to explore the resources and consider incorporating them into their teaching.
Week 4:
- User-Generated Content Campaign:
- Launch a user-generated content campaign, encouraging subscribers to share their success stories and learning journeys on social media. Reward the most inspiring stories.
- Mid-Month Update:
- Send a mid-month email update to the mailing list, highlighting the success of the webinars, showcasing user-generated content, and reminding subscribers about the limited-time offer.
- End-of-Month Promotion:
- As the month comes to a close, run a final promotion for BrandRoots Study Hall subscriptions, reiterating the value of the platform’s resources and the ongoing benefits of subscription.
Ongoing Activities:
- Monitor and respond to social media interactions and comments promptly.
- Regularly update the BrandRoots Study Hall platform with new courses and resources.
- Analyze marketing campaign performance using data analytics and make adjustments for optimization.
By executing this marketing plan strategically, BrandRoots Study Hall can attract and retain a diverse audience of learners seeking beginner-level learning resources in creative work, thereby growing its user base and strengthening its brand presence.
While I don’t think it’s perfect, that’s quite the plan to help brainstorm ideas! If I don’t like something in the plan, I can tell ChatGPT, and we can refine the plan together. Make a marketing plan for a day, week, month or year—all within the matter of seconds. If you’ve never made a marketing plan before, this is a great starter template.
Coding Help
In the vast world of coding languages, learning them all can be a daunting and time-consuming task, especially when troubleshooting becomes a hurdle. Fortunately, ChatGPT can be a valuable aid for beginners looking to delve into coding and address common issues. While it’s important to note that complex coding projects often involve numerous files and interconnected information, leading to occasional inaccuracies in the output, ChatGPT can still serve as an excellent guide to navigate through problems or initiate your coding journey. Let’s explore an example to see how ChatGPT can be a helpful ally in your coding endeavors.
Prompt: I’m creating a survey form where a user will answer a question on the scale of 1-10. How do I code in HTML a form question that allows the user to answer by interacting with a range scale?
Answer: To create a survey form question with a range scale in HTML, you can use the <input> element with the type="range" attribute. This input type allows users to select a value from a specified range using a slider. Here’s an example of how you can code it:
In this example, we use an <input> element with type="range" to create the slider. The min attribute specifies the minimum value (1 in this case) and the max attribute specifies the maximum value (10 in this case) that the user can select. The default value is set to 5 using the value attribute.
We also use an <output> element to display the selected value next to the range input. The for attribute of the <output> element is set to the id of the range input so that it is associated with the input. We then use JavaScript to update the text content of the <span> element with the selected value whenever the user interacts with the range slider.
Storytelling and Interactive Game Development
ChatGPT can be a valuable tool for storytelling, particularly when it comes to crafting narratives for game development. By engaging in a conversation with ChatGPT, you can explore various scenarios and ideas that can enrich your text-based game. Let’s delve into a simple example to see how ChatGPT’s capabilities can assist you in creating captivating and immersive gaming experiences.
Prompt: You’re a young nature explorer and approach an area of forest where an unforgiving path takes you deeper into the forest, or a rickety bridge takes you across the river. You hear the howling of wolves in the distance, and the pressure to make a decision grows. What happens next?
Answer: Standing at the edge of the forest, the howling of wolves serves as a constant reminder of the imminent danger. The pressure to make a decision intensifies as I weigh my options. The unforgiving path beckons with the allure of the unknown, while the rickety bridge promises safety and the chance to cross the rushing river. My heart races with both excitement and caution, aware that my choice will shape the course of my adventure.
After a moment of contemplation, I take a deep breath, my hand resting on the strap of my trusty backpack. I consider the risks and rewards of each path, fully aware of the consequences.
The Decision: The Rickety Bridge
Cognizant of the howling wolves and the need to prioritize safety, I choose to cross the rickety bridge. It may be a less adventurous route, but it grants me the chance to avoid any potential encounters with the wild creatures. As I take my first step onto the swaying planks, my heart pounds in my chest, and my senses heighten, ready to react to any unexpected movements of the bridge.
The crossing proves nerve-wracking, and I carefully navigate the unstable path. Each creaking plank reinforces my decision, reminding me that this is not a journey to take lightly. I hold my breath, keenly aware of the roaring river below, its wild waters mirroring the untamed spirit of the forest.
Upon reaching the other side, a sense of relief washes over me, and I spare a glance back at the unforgiving path, its allure tinged with uncertainty. Though I have chosen safety, my adventurous spirit yearns for the untamed wilderness that awaits deeper in the forest. Still, I know that safety is paramount, and there may be other opportunities for exploration and discovery along the river’s edge.
Unexpected Beauty:
As I continue along the riverbank, I find unexpected beauty in this less-trodden terrain. Ancient trees stretch their gnarled branches toward the sky, and the calls of vibrant birdlife fill the air. The river leads me to a hidden waterfall, cascading gracefully from the cliffs above, its spray forming a delicate rainbow in the sunlight.
I take a moment to sketch the breathtaking scene in my explorer’s journal, capturing nature’s masterpiece on paper. The beauty of this moment reminds me that every path, no matter the choice, holds its own wonders and treasures.
The Journey Continues:
Though the roar of the river may have drowned out the howls of the wolves, I remain vigilant as I venture forth, my eyes and ears attuned to the rhythms of nature. The decision to cross the rickety bridge sets me on a different path, but my journey as a young nature explorer continues, filled with the promise of exploration, discovery, and the embrace of nature’s captivating secrets. With every step, I embrace the spirit of adventure, eager to uncover the wonders that lie ahead in this captivating world of untamed beauty.
Meal Prep
If you can relate to my experience, cooking might sometimes seem overwhelming and far from enjoyable. With busy schedules, finding time to prepare quick and healthy meals can be a real challenge. However, there’s good news – ChatGPT can lend a helping hand in this area. Let’s explore an example of how ChatGPT can assist you in simplifying your cooking journey and discovering delightful meal ideas.
Prompt: What is a quick and easy meal prep I can do this week that has protein and vegetables?
Answer: A quick and easy meal prep idea that includes protein and vegetables is “Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables.” This meal is simple to prepare, requires minimal hands-on time, and offers a balanced combination of protein and nutrient-rich vegetables. Here’s how you can make it:
Ingredients:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Assorted vegetables (e.g., broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, etc.)
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces or leave them as whole chicken breasts/thighs, depending on your preference.
- Chop the assorted vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Place the chicken and vegetables on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spread out in a single layer.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and vegetables, then sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Toss everything on the sheet pan to evenly coat with oil and seasonings.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly browned.
- Once cooked, remove the sheet pan from the oven and let it cool slightly before dividing the contents into meal prep containers.
Meal Prep Tips:
- Store the sheet pan chicken and vegetables in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Serve it with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or whole wheat couscous for added carbohydrates and fiber.
- Customize the seasonings to your liking with herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, or cumin.
This sheet pan meal prep provides a balanced combination of protein from the chicken and a variety of nutrients from the colorful vegetables. It’s a convenient option for busy weekdays and can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Resource Recommendations
Individuals have diverse learning styles, and having access to a variety of mediums can be highly advantageous when trying to grasp a subject. If you’re seeking to expand your knowledge in a particular area, why not leverage ChatGPT to receive personalized recommendations for resources that align with your unique learning preferences? Take a look at the example below to see how ChatGPT can assist you in discovering tailored learning materials tailored to your style.
Prompt: I want to learn more about business. Can you give a recommendation of each one of these content types so I can learn the basics: book, podcast, TED talk
Answer: Certainly! Here are recommendations for each content type to help you learn the basics of business:
- Book: “The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries
“The Lean Startup” is a popular and influential book that introduces the concept of building a startup or business through a systematic and iterative approach. Eric Ries outlines the principles of lean methodology, which focus on validating ideas quickly, learning from customer feedback, and making data-driven decisions to build successful and sustainable businesses. This book is particularly valuable for aspiring entrepreneurs and those interested in innovative approaches to business development. - Podcast: “How I Built This” hosted by Guy Raz
“How I Built This” is a podcast that features in-depth interviews with successful entrepreneurs, business founders, and innovators. Hosted by Guy Raz, the podcast explores the stories behind some of the world’s most well-known companies and brands. Each episode delves into the trials, triumphs, and strategies used by entrepreneurs to build their businesses from the ground up. It offers valuable insights, lessons, and inspiration for anyone interested in learning from the experiences of successful business leaders. - TED Talk: “Simon Sinek: How Great Leaders Inspire Action”
Simon Sinek’s TED Talk is a popular and thought-provoking presentation that explores the concept of “The Golden Circle” and how great leaders inspire action. Sinek discusses the importance of understanding the “why” behind your business and how communicating your purpose and values can attract loyal customers and employees. This talk offers valuable lessons on leadership, marketing, and building a business with a strong sense of purpose and direction.
By engaging with these content types, you’ll gain valuable insights into the basics of business, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Remember that continuous learning and exploration are essential for personal and professional growth in the business world.
After this response I asked ChatGPT to recommend to me classes I should take in college to learn about business. It gave me 14 classes, and these subject areas can not only guide my educational journey but also complement the resource recommendations it had previously offered. Resources are just a prompt away.
Other Prompts
You can interact with ChatGPT in endless ways. Other ideas to use ChatGPT are:
- Create a list of blog ideas.
- Get photography ideas that complement text content.
- Get help with assessing a decision by creating a pros and cons list.
- Rewrite content to be a different tone of voice or style.
- Draft content such as emails, cover letters, summaries and more.
- Ask for specific facts and demand its source be cited to research more.
- Deconstruct a project by breaking it down into smaller tasks.
While ChatGPT can undoubtedly be a valuable tool, it is crucial to exercise excellent critical thinking on your part to assess the accuracy of information and evaluate its usefulness. As with any technology, ChatGPT has its limitations and imperfections. It is essential to keep this in mind and use it as a supplementary resource rather than a definitive authority.
Despite its limitations, ChatGPT offers numerous advantages as a helpful assistant in your work. By exploring its capabilities and integrating it into your workflow, you can discover how it empowers you to become more productive in various areas. Give ChatGPT a try and unlock its potential to enhance your creativity, problem-solving, and overall efficiency in tackling various tasks. Embrace the possibilities, while being mindful of the need for human judgment and expertise in harnessing the power of this technology.
